There’s a very familiar face taking over the Austin volleyball program this fall.

The Packers are turning to Cindy Owen, who is also the head softball coach, to lead the way as she begins her first season as head volleyball coach.

Owen is taking over a team that graduated a bulk of last year’s squad that finished 2-21 overall.

She’s off to a good start as she worked with around 40 girls over the summer in camps and workouts and there are around 50 players currently out for the sport.

“It’s a lot of the same names and faces that I saw over the summer,” Owen said. “That shows me they want to change the way the volleyball program is going and they’re dedicated.”

Austin senior Erin Dankert also played softball under Owen and she likes the impact that Owen could have on the volleyball team this fall.

” She’s a very positive coach and it’s good to see that pass on to volleyball,” Dankert said.

The Packers have a very busy scheduled early on this season as they’ll play three matches and compete in a tournament before the end of August.

Austin will open its season in Farmington Aug. 22 at 7 p.m. and it will host Albert Lea Aug. 23 at 7:15 p.m.

“I love volleyball and it’s an awesome game,” Owen said. “It’s also a very frustrating sport at times. The kids have been very good and I’ve gotten a warm welcome from the community. I’m excited to see where we’re going to be.”

Austin senior Kristine Snyder said the team is hoping to rack up some wins this season and they’re looking forward to working with Owen.

“She’s working very hard and she wants to see us improve,” Snyder said.

Owen graduated from Ellendale Geneva High School. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Education as well as Special Education from Winona State University; she also has a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Southwest State University. She has coached and taught in the Preston–Fountain School district as before moving to Southwest Star Concept.